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The Quilt Chronicles #2
The Shadow on the Quilt
Juliana Sutton's life looks perfect from the outside. Until her husband's untimely death reveals a devastating truth. . . . Cass Gregory is carrying his own dark secrets and feels unworthy to offer comfort to a woman of Juliana's standing. When circumstances force them together, both Juliana and Cass are wounded and afraid to trust. Will the shadow of her dead husband's name stand between Juliana and Cass, or will Juliana choose a love she never thought possible?
319 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2012
58 people are currently reading
319 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Grace Whitson
54 books340 followersA native of southern Illinois, Stephanie Grace Whitson has lived in Nebraska since 1975. She began what she calls "playing with imaginary friends" (writing fiction) when, as a result of teaching her four homeschooled children Nebraska history, she was personally encouraged and challenged by the lives of pioneer women in the West. Since her first book, Walks the Fire, was published in 1995, Stephanie's fiction titles have appeared on the ECPA bestseller list numerous times and been finalists for the Christy Award, the Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, and ForeWord Magazine's Book of the Year. Her first nonfiction work, How to Help a Grieving Friend, was released in 2005. In addition to serving in her local church and keeping up with two married children, two college students, and a high school senior, Stephanie enjoys motorcycle trips with her family and church friends. Her passionate interests in pioneer women's history, antique quilts, and French, Italian, and Hawaiian language and culture provide endless story-telling possibilities.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
December 31, 2020
5 stars, 2012: I found this book highly enjoyable! It was a touching story, one that was easy to empathize with. It had distinctly Christian elements, but wasn’t preachy, something that I appreciate. This is fiction at its best! It’s truly a beautiful story about the power of faith and love. “Shadow on the Quilt” is sure to touch your heart – it’s a book worth buying! I certainly won’t be getting rid of my copy. It’s an excellent story from a wonderful author! I admit…I totally empathized with Juliana, the heroine, even though many of the things she went through are things I’ve never experienced. I could still feel what she was feeling. Cass was a wonderful hero! This book fits well with Stephanie Grace Whitson’s other books…I give it two thumbs up, and recommend it for all Christian fiction lovers!
4 stars, 2020: Still a great one.
4 stars, 2020: Still a great one.
April 3, 2013
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
The Quilt Chronicles, Book 2!! The Shadow on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson, c2012
Will Past Pain Unravel the Future?
Juliana Sutton has it all: a successful and devoted husband, charities and church work to keep her fulfilled, and a dream home almost complete. But all is not as it seems. Juliana's life looks perfect--from the outside. Until her husband Sterling's untimely death reveals a devastating truth.
Juliana Learns Her Life's True Pattern Is Yet to Be Revealed
Uhrichsville, OH - As Juliana Sutton snips the threads outlining her dead husband's name and rips them from a fundraising quilt, she vows to move on.
Cass Gregory is carrying his own dark secrets and feels unworthy to offer comfort to a woman of Juliana's standing. A workman on the Sutton's new mansion, this devastating event brings him closer to the tender‐hearted Juliana as they work together to see the mansion completed. When circumstances force them together, both Juliana and Cass are wounded and afraid to trust. Will the shadow of Sterling's name stand between Juliana and the man she comes to care for? Or will she choose a love she never thought possible?
My Review: The Shadow on the Quilt
Juliana Sutton exchanges her heart's sorrow for a new direction as her life is turned upside down. Looking outward, she finds needs beyond herself. Cass Gregory continues forward, securing the job he and other men have begun, bringing it to completion. But will it extend into his own life, as he searches, stretching forth each day with the resources he has been given?
As their hope extends into the community, others come on board to further a cause none of them ever thought was in their day-to-day plan, rescuing the under-trodden, underprivileged forgotten lives of those who come. Young mothers returning to work, those abandoned, elderly needing a covering, blending together beyond a foundling home to survival, care, and love. The Shadow on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson explores the history of our country as it rebuilds salvaged lives. Strength in unifying skills and giftings of many, reunite the hearts to plenty.
The Shadow on the Quilt is my tribute to the women who created the Home for the Friendless in 1876; God's extraordinary women who saw a need and filled it. Extraordinary women who believed in an eternity where the word "friendless" will no longer be needed. --Stephanie Grace Whitson
I like Stephanie Whitson's novels because they show graciousness from the protagonist without making the recipients feel like they are less. May we benefit from these examples of earnest care and appreciation of others in our own lives. By her example beyond words, Juliana lives her life and others are easily able to follow. Pretty obvious how Cass can be drawn to her. I like how he looks out for the care of the other men and their families by leading and standing up for right, insuring they continue to have a job to be able to support their family.
The Quilt Chronicles series
Book 1, The Key on the Quilt
Book 2, The Shadow on the Quilt
Book 3, The Message on the Quilt releases on April 5, 2013!
***Thank you to publisher Barbour Publishing for sending me a copy of The Shadow on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson to read and review in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
The Quilt Chronicles, Book 2!! The Shadow on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson, c2012
Will Past Pain Unravel the Future?
Juliana Sutton has it all: a successful and devoted husband, charities and church work to keep her fulfilled, and a dream home almost complete. But all is not as it seems. Juliana's life looks perfect--from the outside. Until her husband Sterling's untimely death reveals a devastating truth.
Juliana Learns Her Life's True Pattern Is Yet to Be Revealed
Uhrichsville, OH - As Juliana Sutton snips the threads outlining her dead husband's name and rips them from a fundraising quilt, she vows to move on.
Cass Gregory is carrying his own dark secrets and feels unworthy to offer comfort to a woman of Juliana's standing. A workman on the Sutton's new mansion, this devastating event brings him closer to the tender‐hearted Juliana as they work together to see the mansion completed. When circumstances force them together, both Juliana and Cass are wounded and afraid to trust. Will the shadow of Sterling's name stand between Juliana and the man she comes to care for? Or will she choose a love she never thought possible?
My Review: The Shadow on the Quilt
Juliana Sutton exchanges her heart's sorrow for a new direction as her life is turned upside down. Looking outward, she finds needs beyond herself. Cass Gregory continues forward, securing the job he and other men have begun, bringing it to completion. But will it extend into his own life, as he searches, stretching forth each day with the resources he has been given?
As their hope extends into the community, others come on board to further a cause none of them ever thought was in their day-to-day plan, rescuing the under-trodden, underprivileged forgotten lives of those who come. Young mothers returning to work, those abandoned, elderly needing a covering, blending together beyond a foundling home to survival, care, and love. The Shadow on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson explores the history of our country as it rebuilds salvaged lives. Strength in unifying skills and giftings of many, reunite the hearts to plenty.
The Shadow on the Quilt is my tribute to the women who created the Home for the Friendless in 1876; God's extraordinary women who saw a need and filled it. Extraordinary women who believed in an eternity where the word "friendless" will no longer be needed. --Stephanie Grace Whitson
I like Stephanie Whitson's novels because they show graciousness from the protagonist without making the recipients feel like they are less. May we benefit from these examples of earnest care and appreciation of others in our own lives. By her example beyond words, Juliana lives her life and others are easily able to follow. Pretty obvious how Cass can be drawn to her. I like how he looks out for the care of the other men and their families by leading and standing up for right, insuring they continue to have a job to be able to support their family.
The Quilt Chronicles series
Book 1, The Key on the Quilt
Book 2, The Shadow on the Quilt
Book 3, The Message on the Quilt releases on April 5, 2013!
***Thank you to publisher Barbour Publishing for sending me a copy of The Shadow on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson to read and review in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
September 24, 2012
Within a few days Juliana’s world is forever changed. First she finds out her husband has been with another woman and has a child and then her husband is killed in a fire before she can even confront him. Not only does she have to deal with the grief of his betrayal and death but also with the huge house he had been building south of town. With the help of her late husbands beloved aunts she embarks on a journey of healing and new beginnings.
Cass Gregory is the man in charge of getting the big house build and with the death of his boss he now has to deal with both Juliana as well as others who have their own plans for the big house. The fire that killed his boss also put his mother and sister out of work and a home and Cass now wants to help them get back on their feet but will the past cause them all to stumble?
This is book two in the series but very much a stand alone. The author is a very deep writer and opens the book with a lot of fast information that might leave you going well geez there is the book in 5 pages but its only the beginning of a good book.
What I liked: I really liked Juliana I felt so bad for her in the beginning finding out about her husband’s other woman and then his sudden death only a day later. She grieved for so much I just wanted things to go her way. But even with all that was going on she put one foot in front of the other and pushed on. To keep the book interesting there was the side characters of her husbands aunts who had me laughing and smiling and helped keep the book from feeling too dark. I also liked Cass and his mom and sister.
What I did not like: We also hear from Juliana’s husbands other woman. When I saw she was also a part of the book I was kind of surprised and as much as I wanted to like her or feel sorry for her I just really did not like her and how that part of the storyline ended was not what I was expecting. This book was very dark just because of all the grief. While it was a good read it was very heavy.
Over all I liked the book. It can be nice to read a book with so much depth. I would call it a drama. I was happy with the ending but felt there where some things left unanswered. This book may not be for every one but if you’re a fan of a good solid historical fiction with some romance and good characters I suggest you check it out.
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/0...
Cass Gregory is the man in charge of getting the big house build and with the death of his boss he now has to deal with both Juliana as well as others who have their own plans for the big house. The fire that killed his boss also put his mother and sister out of work and a home and Cass now wants to help them get back on their feet but will the past cause them all to stumble?
This is book two in the series but very much a stand alone. The author is a very deep writer and opens the book with a lot of fast information that might leave you going well geez there is the book in 5 pages but its only the beginning of a good book.
What I liked: I really liked Juliana I felt so bad for her in the beginning finding out about her husband’s other woman and then his sudden death only a day later. She grieved for so much I just wanted things to go her way. But even with all that was going on she put one foot in front of the other and pushed on. To keep the book interesting there was the side characters of her husbands aunts who had me laughing and smiling and helped keep the book from feeling too dark. I also liked Cass and his mom and sister.
What I did not like: We also hear from Juliana’s husbands other woman. When I saw she was also a part of the book I was kind of surprised and as much as I wanted to like her or feel sorry for her I just really did not like her and how that part of the storyline ended was not what I was expecting. This book was very dark just because of all the grief. While it was a good read it was very heavy.
Over all I liked the book. It can be nice to read a book with so much depth. I would call it a drama. I was happy with the ending but felt there where some things left unanswered. This book may not be for every one but if you’re a fan of a good solid historical fiction with some romance and good characters I suggest you check it out.
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/0...
September 10, 2012
Juliana Sutton has just found out that Sterling, her husband of ten years, has been seeing another woman, and they have a child together. Worse, he manages to get himself killed in a fire in the local brothel before she can confront him. Juliana hides her newfound knowledge in order to protect Sterling’s reputation in the eyes of his two aunts, who share her house.
With her grief at Sterling’s death overtaken by her anger at his betrayal, Juliana defies bereavement customs and maintains her role in local society. Her widowhood brings her into contact with Cass Gregory, the foreman of her husband’s construction company, currently engaged in building her new home. Juliana is initially suspicious of Cass as she recognises as being at the brothel on the night of the fire with one of the ‘ladies. She eventually comes to trust him and finds solace in organising the completion of the building.
The Shadow on the Quilt is an interesting story with several strands to the plot, including the quilt that the aunts are sewing, the new house, the Gregory family, and the mother of Sterling’s child. It is also the story of recovery in a time where there were strict expectations regarding the behaviour of those who were grieving, and the difficulty of conforming to those expectations – especially for someone who is more angry than grieving. The difference between heart and head observance (and attitude) was particularly well illustrated by the respective meetings with the two Christian ministers, one of whom displays a lot more Christian conduct than the other…
This is the second in a series, but each book is a stand-alone Christian historical romance, with the series based on a common theme of quilts. I really enjoyed it – it had likeable characters, a well-thought-out plot, and the Christian aspect was well-integrated without being preachy. And there was a nice romance, with plenty of tension but moving at an appropriate pace. Recommended.
Thanks to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
With her grief at Sterling’s death overtaken by her anger at his betrayal, Juliana defies bereavement customs and maintains her role in local society. Her widowhood brings her into contact with Cass Gregory, the foreman of her husband’s construction company, currently engaged in building her new home. Juliana is initially suspicious of Cass as she recognises as being at the brothel on the night of the fire with one of the ‘ladies. She eventually comes to trust him and finds solace in organising the completion of the building.
The Shadow on the Quilt is an interesting story with several strands to the plot, including the quilt that the aunts are sewing, the new house, the Gregory family, and the mother of Sterling’s child. It is also the story of recovery in a time where there were strict expectations regarding the behaviour of those who were grieving, and the difficulty of conforming to those expectations – especially for someone who is more angry than grieving. The difference between heart and head observance (and attitude) was particularly well illustrated by the respective meetings with the two Christian ministers, one of whom displays a lot more Christian conduct than the other…
This is the second in a series, but each book is a stand-alone Christian historical romance, with the series based on a common theme of quilts. I really enjoyed it – it had likeable characters, a well-thought-out plot, and the Christian aspect was well-integrated without being preachy. And there was a nice romance, with plenty of tension but moving at an appropriate pace. Recommended.
Thanks to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
August 10, 2016
Review on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R2EJIRJO...
Review on my blog: http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
The Shadow On The Quilt was a nice read. I read book one, The Key On The Quilt, last year and enjoyed it, so I was somewhat looking forward to reading this novel.
I thought the story was interesting and I liked how there were a couple things in the story that I didn't see coming.
The characters were good. Not favorites of mine, but I did like them. Another thing I liked about The Shadow On The Quilt was how lyrics to some hymns were incorporated in the story. I didn't care for the Times when the story seemed to repeat itself.
Overall, a nice read. I enjoyed it. :) I will probably read the next book in this series someday.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
Review on my blog: http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
The Shadow On The Quilt was a nice read. I read book one, The Key On The Quilt, last year and enjoyed it, so I was somewhat looking forward to reading this novel.
I thought the story was interesting and I liked how there were a couple things in the story that I didn't see coming.
The characters were good. Not favorites of mine, but I did like them. Another thing I liked about The Shadow On The Quilt was how lyrics to some hymns were incorporated in the story. I didn't care for the Times when the story seemed to repeat itself.
Overall, a nice read. I enjoyed it. :) I will probably read the next book in this series someday.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
Read
September 6, 2012Juliana Sutton makes a startling discovery about her husband. Before she can confront him, he dies in a fire at a brothel. Juliana struggles to contain her anger and keep his secret while friends and family express sympathy. Her husband's foreman, Cass, knows the truth, but has secrets of his own. He tries to support Juliana without acting on his attraction - after all, she's grieving, she's his boss, and she's way above his station.
This story is as elegant as its heroine. I loved how each character, even the minor ones, were fully drawn. For instance, Juliana's servants, Martha and Alfred, were woven throughout the story and had pearls of wisdom to share. The greedy banker's wife could have been a cliché, but Mrs. Duncan has her own journey. Once I got over being terrified of Aunt Theodora, I thoroughly enjoyed her pithy sense of humor. Grief is difficult to live through and difficult to write, but Juliana is no whiner - I rooted for her every page. And what is it with builder-heroes? I wrote one for "Through Rushing Water". Like Will, Cass is a man of integrity, a good man in every way.
Bravo, Stephanie Whitson! I am so looking forward to "The Message on the Quilt"!
This story is as elegant as its heroine. I loved how each character, even the minor ones, were fully drawn. For instance, Juliana's servants, Martha and Alfred, were woven throughout the story and had pearls of wisdom to share. The greedy banker's wife could have been a cliché, but Mrs. Duncan has her own journey. Once I got over being terrified of Aunt Theodora, I thoroughly enjoyed her pithy sense of humor. Grief is difficult to live through and difficult to write, but Juliana is no whiner - I rooted for her every page. And what is it with builder-heroes? I wrote one for "Through Rushing Water". Like Will, Cass is a man of integrity, a good man in every way.
Bravo, Stephanie Whitson! I am so looking forward to "The Message on the Quilt"!
July 2, 2019
3.25 stars
Juliana finds out a secret left behind by her husband of a decade after he dies in a tragic fire.
She tries to pick up the pieces of her life and her husband's last project his business undertook, which was the building of a large house for her. She doesn't want it though.
Cass worked for Juliana's husband and knows a little bit about the secret that was left behind, though not too much, as he stayed out of the situation. He does his best to continue working on the house, but can't help but feel upset at his boss for leaving behind such a kind woman that didn't deserve to be treated as she was.
I feel this book was a little more drawn out and not as good as the first book was, but the story was still lovely. The characters were introduced too much at once that it took me a few chapters to get the hang of who was who. Once each character was better established, I enjoyed seeing their personalities come out.
As in the first book, the quilt is barely brought up in the story, but it does come up earlier on in this book compared to the first book taking its time before ever mentioning a quilt. The quilt comes up about two or three times only in this book. It is the message about the shadow and why it is so important to the plot of the story.
Juliana finds out a secret left behind by her husband of a decade after he dies in a tragic fire.
She tries to pick up the pieces of her life and her husband's last project his business undertook, which was the building of a large house for her. She doesn't want it though.
Cass worked for Juliana's husband and knows a little bit about the secret that was left behind, though not too much, as he stayed out of the situation. He does his best to continue working on the house, but can't help but feel upset at his boss for leaving behind such a kind woman that didn't deserve to be treated as she was.
I feel this book was a little more drawn out and not as good as the first book was, but the story was still lovely. The characters were introduced too much at once that it took me a few chapters to get the hang of who was who. Once each character was better established, I enjoyed seeing their personalities come out.
As in the first book, the quilt is barely brought up in the story, but it does come up earlier on in this book compared to the first book taking its time before ever mentioning a quilt. The quilt comes up about two or three times only in this book. It is the message about the shadow and why it is so important to the plot of the story.
February 3, 2020
Sometimes the books in a series vary in Quality. I read the Message on the Quilt and loved it. This one about Juliana Sutton, wife of a rich man who has some hidden secrets, seemed to drag and talked about the details of the mansion being built over and over. The foreman for the building knows the secrets and is a good representation of a man of integrity. Otherwise, it felt like I was plodding through this book. The redeeming quality is there is a good message of the gospel in it.
Read
January 12, 2025Juliana finds out her husband of 10 yrs is cheating. He has a baby with another woman. Before she can confront him, he dies in a fire at at brothel. She ends up falling in love with her husbands employee. She donates the gradiose house her husband was building to be used as a combo orphanage and homeless shelter. The mother of her husband's son dies. He's adopted and raised by the matron of the orphanage. Juliana marries the employee, has 3 children and lives happily ever after.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2023
This is my first Whitson book, it will NOT be my last. I laughed, I cried. I haven't cried in years while reading a book. She is an amazing writer/story teller. It has also been years since I have read a book in 2 days. I couldn't put it down. I hope there are more books with Juliana, her aunts and Cass and his family.
July 31, 2024
I nearly didn’t read past the first couple of pages. The opening scene seemed too contemporary for the stated time period. But I’ve enjoyed other books by this author so persevered. It’s not great literature. Still, a heartwarming story where all ends happily can be a welcome distraction in a busy life.
April 4, 2025
It was better then what I thought it was gonna be. Got that small town drama. When it said it was Christian fiction and it started out with her husband dieing in a brothel…I swear it would have been a great spit take. Was not expecting that. I really like the aunts, and that women is a far better women then what I would have been.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2024
great but ending too short
I always love her books! I always want the ending to be longer so that’s just me wanting it not to end! The praise songs and scriptures make it very enjoyable!
I always love her books! I always want the ending to be longer so that’s just me wanting it not to end! The praise songs and scriptures make it very enjoyable!
January 24, 2025
Another excellent book
I loved the story, and the weaving of the stories, and how I feel like I have been to a revival meeting of how to come to Jesus with all of my burdens and let Him work it out! Ms. Whitson, keep writing !
I loved the story, and the weaving of the stories, and how I feel like I have been to a revival meeting of how to come to Jesus with all of my burdens and let Him work it out! Ms. Whitson, keep writing !
April 25, 2025
what an amazing book
This book is absolutely incredible. It takes human infallibility and creates a story so moving that you cannot but be caught up into the emotion of it all.
This book is a heart changer.
This book is absolutely incredible. It takes human infallibility and creates a story so moving that you cannot but be caught up into the emotion of it all.
This book is a heart changer.
August 23, 2017
Juliana Suttons name stand between Juliana and Cass, or will Juliana choose a love she never thought possible?
May 4, 2022
I'm really enjoying these books!
October 24, 2022
When it comes to Christian historical romance, Stephanie Grace Whitson can always be counted on to
deliver. I just finished reading The Shadow on the Quilt and thoroughly enjoyed it.
deliver. I just finished reading The Shadow on the Quilt and thoroughly enjoyed it.
October 17, 2023
This book was my favorite of the Quilt Chronicles. The story caught me up right away, and I had a hard time putting it down. The characters were engaging and I wanted to find out what happened to all of them. This book fits in my favorite kind of historical fiction.
March 6, 2018
SCCL PL Capac best book yet of the series
February 16, 2021
I love the characters in this book. Loss brings the good and the bad to light. A widow uses her strength to come to terms with her husband’s indiscretions and makes something good out of it for the community. It is a great story of friendship, love, faith and community.
September 19, 2012
The Shadow on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson
4 STARS
The Shadow on the Quilt made me question what would I do if I were in this situation.
I would not be so forgiving and generous. This story dwelt with some tough issues that a lot of people find themselfs in and handled it all with such love and faith.
Juliana Sutton found a locket with pictures of a women,baby and bit of the baby's hair.
It also had a name engraven on it. Juliana found it in her husbands pants. She was hurt and so angry at her husband of 10 years.
Before she could confront her husband they heard the sounds of the fire bell ringing.
Aunt Theodora and Aunt Lydia both lived in the big house with Juliana and Sterling.
They had never married and love Sterling so much and he loves them.
Sterling had said he had to go to the office and work after dinner. When Theodora heard the fire bell and they could see the smoke of the fire right in the middle of town. They called Sterling but no one answered the phone.
The Aunts wanted to go and make sure Sterling was safe. So Juliana agreed to go with them in the horse and buggy. They found the office empty and no sign of Sterling.
They saw the fire was actually at the brothel. Two people died in the fire. One was a working lady their the other was Sterling.
The Sheriff came and told them that Sterling had run into the building to try and save her. Juliana figured out that it was not probably true.
Juliana inheirited all of her husbands money and businesses except for a trustfund for the Aunts. They lived in a big house but Sterling was building a way bigger and fancier house right out of town. Sterling wanted possesions and figured someday to run for govenor. The three of them did not want to move into the house so what to do about it was the question for Juliana.
Cass Gregory saw the fire at the brothel and hurried to find out if his mother and sister Sadie made it out. They had made it out safely. Cass for years did not know where his mother and Sadie were. Finally they found each other. He could not get Sadie to quit working and his mother would not quit working at the brothel till she did.
No one knew that Margaret was his mother and Sadie his sister. It was his Ma's wishes.
Cass was foreman on building the boss's house.
Ludwig Meyer offered Sadie and Marget come stay at his house. He had been asking Sadie to marry him for awhile.
Jenny and her baby lived in a farm house by themselves but it would not be for long. She knew that Sterling would move them to a different city so they could raise up Johnny together and know that no one would know that Johnny was born out of wedlock.
What was she going to do now? She was feeling sick and so tired all the time.
The story was well written and made you feel for the different characters and how it would all turn out. There is plenty of drama to keep my attention. The characters were all different and had good and bad traits in them. It was a clean read and had a little bit of religion in them with people living good examples of faith and bad examples. It showed all of us need work.
I would read more from Stephanie books in the future if they are as good as The Shadow on the Quilt.
I was given this ebook to read for free in exchange of honest review of the book from Netgalley.
09/01/2012 PUB. Barbour Publishing,Inc.
4 STARS
The Shadow on the Quilt made me question what would I do if I were in this situation.
I would not be so forgiving and generous. This story dwelt with some tough issues that a lot of people find themselfs in and handled it all with such love and faith.
Juliana Sutton found a locket with pictures of a women,baby and bit of the baby's hair.
It also had a name engraven on it. Juliana found it in her husbands pants. She was hurt and so angry at her husband of 10 years.
Before she could confront her husband they heard the sounds of the fire bell ringing.
Aunt Theodora and Aunt Lydia both lived in the big house with Juliana and Sterling.
They had never married and love Sterling so much and he loves them.
Sterling had said he had to go to the office and work after dinner. When Theodora heard the fire bell and they could see the smoke of the fire right in the middle of town. They called Sterling but no one answered the phone.
The Aunts wanted to go and make sure Sterling was safe. So Juliana agreed to go with them in the horse and buggy. They found the office empty and no sign of Sterling.
They saw the fire was actually at the brothel. Two people died in the fire. One was a working lady their the other was Sterling.
The Sheriff came and told them that Sterling had run into the building to try and save her. Juliana figured out that it was not probably true.
Juliana inheirited all of her husbands money and businesses except for a trustfund for the Aunts. They lived in a big house but Sterling was building a way bigger and fancier house right out of town. Sterling wanted possesions and figured someday to run for govenor. The three of them did not want to move into the house so what to do about it was the question for Juliana.
Cass Gregory saw the fire at the brothel and hurried to find out if his mother and sister Sadie made it out. They had made it out safely. Cass for years did not know where his mother and Sadie were. Finally they found each other. He could not get Sadie to quit working and his mother would not quit working at the brothel till she did.
No one knew that Margaret was his mother and Sadie his sister. It was his Ma's wishes.
Cass was foreman on building the boss's house.
Ludwig Meyer offered Sadie and Marget come stay at his house. He had been asking Sadie to marry him for awhile.
Jenny and her baby lived in a farm house by themselves but it would not be for long. She knew that Sterling would move them to a different city so they could raise up Johnny together and know that no one would know that Johnny was born out of wedlock.
What was she going to do now? She was feeling sick and so tired all the time.
The story was well written and made you feel for the different characters and how it would all turn out. There is plenty of drama to keep my attention. The characters were all different and had good and bad traits in them. It was a clean read and had a little bit of religion in them with people living good examples of faith and bad examples. It showed all of us need work.
I would read more from Stephanie books in the future if they are as good as The Shadow on the Quilt.
I was given this ebook to read for free in exchange of honest review of the book from Netgalley.
09/01/2012 PUB. Barbour Publishing,Inc.
May 12, 2018
Shadow on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson
Genre: Historical Fiction
Format: E-Book
Timeframe: 1883-1904
Location: Lincoln, Nebraska
Characters:
Julianna Sutton: Widow of Sterling Sutton
Cass Gregory: Late husband's right hand man
Aunt Lydia: Sterling's 62 year old aunt
Aunt Theodora: Sterling's 70 year old aunt
Jenny: Sterling's mistress
George and Helen Duncan: Self serving banker and wife
Julianna Sutton had reason to be angry, even bitter. She just found evidence that her husband was a philanderer. A locket he was to give his mistress was in his drawer. Then he was found dead in a brothel that just burnt down. The story several people concocted (who were at the scene of the fire) made him out as a hero. The only ones comforted by this were his aunts. Julianna knew better and so did his foreman, Cass Gregory. And so did others, but no one let on. For his aging aunts' sakes, even Julianna spared them the humiliation and simply kept her husband's cheating to herself and pretended to be in mourning.
Inheriting everything, she decided to turn things around. The monstrous house Sterling was building for her became a project to aid those in need. It served her by keeping her busy and diverted her anger toward Sterling.
The night the fire killed her husband she saw Cass Gregory with his arm around one of the brothel's prostitutes, and another woman Julianna believed to be the madam. They were his mother and sister, cook and woman of the night at the bordello. Because his mother demanded he never reveal their relationship with him. and in order for the town to accept him as a respectable businessman, he carefully guarded this secret. However, upon seeing him with these women, Julianna's immediate thoughts were that he was as bad as her cheating husband and probably in cahoots with him. This project was going to be difficult with a man she nearly despised and considered a hypocrite.
Working so closely with him turned out to be a surprise.
This is the second in Ms. Whitson's quilt series. Completely stand alone book. Except for the location and a quilt in both books, nothing that I could see ties one book to the other. But very good nonetheless.
I loved the characters. The aunts were a hoot. Both quite elderly, one was as sweet as pie, but her sister was suspicious, unbendingly proper and straight forward, but with a loving heart she kept well hidden. Cass was grace personified. It just took Julianna a long time to learn that.
There were many faith quotables throughout the book, mostly in conversations, which I love. After a sermon moved grouchy Aunt Theodora to tears, Julianna wanted to know what made her so sad in the church service. Mind you, she attended a different church than her sister. But when Aunt Theodora's pastor showed his true colors, they all went to Aunt Lydia's church. I loved her response:
"I don't believe I ever heard anyone say that God furiously longs for relationship with his creation. When the pastor said that, I thought, "How absurd". ..But then I looked up at him, and all I could see was that cross hanging above the choir loft. And I realized if that terrible death wasn't about furious longing after humanity, what was it for?"
Genre: Historical Fiction
Format: E-Book
Timeframe: 1883-1904
Location: Lincoln, Nebraska
Characters:
Julianna Sutton: Widow of Sterling Sutton
Cass Gregory: Late husband's right hand man
Aunt Lydia: Sterling's 62 year old aunt
Aunt Theodora: Sterling's 70 year old aunt
Jenny: Sterling's mistress
George and Helen Duncan: Self serving banker and wife
Julianna Sutton had reason to be angry, even bitter. She just found evidence that her husband was a philanderer. A locket he was to give his mistress was in his drawer. Then he was found dead in a brothel that just burnt down. The story several people concocted (who were at the scene of the fire) made him out as a hero. The only ones comforted by this were his aunts. Julianna knew better and so did his foreman, Cass Gregory. And so did others, but no one let on. For his aging aunts' sakes, even Julianna spared them the humiliation and simply kept her husband's cheating to herself and pretended to be in mourning.
Inheriting everything, she decided to turn things around. The monstrous house Sterling was building for her became a project to aid those in need. It served her by keeping her busy and diverted her anger toward Sterling.
The night the fire killed her husband she saw Cass Gregory with his arm around one of the brothel's prostitutes, and another woman Julianna believed to be the madam. They were his mother and sister, cook and woman of the night at the bordello. Because his mother demanded he never reveal their relationship with him. and in order for the town to accept him as a respectable businessman, he carefully guarded this secret. However, upon seeing him with these women, Julianna's immediate thoughts were that he was as bad as her cheating husband and probably in cahoots with him. This project was going to be difficult with a man she nearly despised and considered a hypocrite.
Working so closely with him turned out to be a surprise.
This is the second in Ms. Whitson's quilt series. Completely stand alone book. Except for the location and a quilt in both books, nothing that I could see ties one book to the other. But very good nonetheless.
I loved the characters. The aunts were a hoot. Both quite elderly, one was as sweet as pie, but her sister was suspicious, unbendingly proper and straight forward, but with a loving heart she kept well hidden. Cass was grace personified. It just took Julianna a long time to learn that.
There were many faith quotables throughout the book, mostly in conversations, which I love. After a sermon moved grouchy Aunt Theodora to tears, Julianna wanted to know what made her so sad in the church service. Mind you, she attended a different church than her sister. But when Aunt Theodora's pastor showed his true colors, they all went to Aunt Lydia's church. I loved her response:
"I don't believe I ever heard anyone say that God furiously longs for relationship with his creation. When the pastor said that, I thought, "How absurd". ..But then I looked up at him, and all I could see was that cross hanging above the choir loft. And I realized if that terrible death wasn't about furious longing after humanity, what was it for?"
September 13, 2012
Stephanie Grace Whitson in her new book, “The Shadow on the Quilt” Book Two in The Quilt Chronicles published by Barbour Publishing, Inc. takes us to Nebraska in 1883.
From the back cover: Will past pain unravel the future?
Juliana Sutton has just about everything a woman could want. Her husband is riding a crest of success in the bustling capital city of Lincoln, and Juliana leads various philanthropic endeavors. Once finished, their new home, a spectacular mansion on five acres, will be the envy of all. Then a devastating scandal erupts…
Cass Gregory, the foreman overseeing the Sutton mansion construction, has spent recent years trying to untangle the disastrous results of his own past choices–and wishing he didn’t know the truth about his boss. When scandal ignites, Cass longs to comfort Juliana but is convinced her position in society and his past make a relationship impossible.
Juliana and Cass are thrown together as completion of the mansion draws near, each one wounded and afraid to trust. Will the shadow of a name stand between them and true happiness?
Ever see a quilt from the bottom instead of the top? Of course from the top it is wonderful, all the pieces jointly fit together but underneath there is this jumble of thread and stitching that looks absolutely horrendous. Cass has a past that he has not gotten over yet. Juliana all of a sudden has to deal with trauma, loss and scandal. Getting these two together is a lot like making a quilt beautiful to see on the top but a mass of work on the bottom. It takes God to make a beautiful quilt out of our lives and Ms. Whitson has given us a wonderful story to show us how He does it. This is a wonderful, fun book. I think this is one of the hardest stories to write as it is all character driven and takes a steady hand to guide the characters through the story while remaining true to each character and these characters are memorable.
This is a story of the past and how we let it determine our present and future. All of us have a past and some of us let it limit and hinder our growth in our present which, of course, adversely affects our future. You come to love these characters as if they were alive (and they are within the pages of this book) and it is a thrill to watch them interact, grow and put aside their distrust, fear and the hurts of their pasts and find peace in their present. Many kudos to Ms. Whitson for a truly memorable book, I was sorry to see it end.
If you missed the interview for “A Claim Of Her Own”, another novel by Ms. Whitson, and would like to listen to it and/or interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Barbour Publishing, Inc. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Will past pain unravel the future?
Juliana Sutton has just about everything a woman could want. Her husband is riding a crest of success in the bustling capital city of Lincoln, and Juliana leads various philanthropic endeavors. Once finished, their new home, a spectacular mansion on five acres, will be the envy of all. Then a devastating scandal erupts…
Cass Gregory, the foreman overseeing the Sutton mansion construction, has spent recent years trying to untangle the disastrous results of his own past choices–and wishing he didn’t know the truth about his boss. When scandal ignites, Cass longs to comfort Juliana but is convinced her position in society and his past make a relationship impossible.
Juliana and Cass are thrown together as completion of the mansion draws near, each one wounded and afraid to trust. Will the shadow of a name stand between them and true happiness?
Ever see a quilt from the bottom instead of the top? Of course from the top it is wonderful, all the pieces jointly fit together but underneath there is this jumble of thread and stitching that looks absolutely horrendous. Cass has a past that he has not gotten over yet. Juliana all of a sudden has to deal with trauma, loss and scandal. Getting these two together is a lot like making a quilt beautiful to see on the top but a mass of work on the bottom. It takes God to make a beautiful quilt out of our lives and Ms. Whitson has given us a wonderful story to show us how He does it. This is a wonderful, fun book. I think this is one of the hardest stories to write as it is all character driven and takes a steady hand to guide the characters through the story while remaining true to each character and these characters are memorable.
This is a story of the past and how we let it determine our present and future. All of us have a past and some of us let it limit and hinder our growth in our present which, of course, adversely affects our future. You come to love these characters as if they were alive (and they are within the pages of this book) and it is a thrill to watch them interact, grow and put aside their distrust, fear and the hurts of their pasts and find peace in their present. Many kudos to Ms. Whitson for a truly memorable book, I was sorry to see it end.
If you missed the interview for “A Claim Of Her Own”, another novel by Ms. Whitson, and would like to listen to it and/or interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Barbour Publishing, Inc. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
January 5, 2013
Juliana Sutton couldn't believe she found what she thought was to be Sterling's surprise for her. Little did she know that after the beautiful night they'd just shared, instead she'd discovered a devastating secret he was keeping. When she opened the locket there was an inscription, To my P.L.S.T.S., with a woman's portrait, Sterling's profile and a lock of white-blonde hair. She spends the time trying to figure out what to do while she waits for Sterling to return, she finally gives up and heads to bed when she hears the fire bells ringing in town, moments later Sterling's aunts, Theodora and Lydia appear after also hearing the bells. Aunt Theodora had tried to call Sterling at his office but didn't get an answer so the fear was that his office was on fire while he was still working. Juliana and Aunt Theodora take the buggy to town while Aunt Lydia stays home in case anyone calls or brings word while they are in town finding out where the fire is.
Fortunately the fire is not the Sutton offices but Goldie's, the local brothel. As they sit in the buggy looking for Sterling, Juliana see's them bring out blonde haired Nell Parker, one of the girls and then, and pull a sheet over her face but they didn't find Sterling. It wasn't until the next day that they found out he died in the fire. Juliana not only has the locket problem but now she has to play the proper grieving widow of Sterling Sutton.
The aunts have been working on an autographed quilt for charity when one day Juliana discovers the name Pamela Lindermann, this is one she doesn't recognize. The undertaker Marvin Lindermann doesn't have a daughter but she connects the name with the initials P.L. so she has the name removed from the quilt, but will the shadow of that name on the quilt be forever in engraved in her memory?
Stephanie did a wonderful job on this story, I found myself pulled into feeling Juliana's pain. She shows Juliana's strong feelings for her husbands aunts and how she will do anything to keep them from suffering the way she is. Juliana somehow finds the strength to move ahead with her life, but what is in store for her, you'll have to read this book on your own to find out. I think you will find yourself being pulled in too.
I read my e-books while I'm in the truck going to town or traveling, paperbacks at home, and let me tell you that I was always anxious to go somewhere and have someone else drive so I could read. I think this second book was a lot better than the first one. I really liked The Key on the Quilt too, but something about this one touched me. I don't know if there is a third one coming out but I am on the lookout for it.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the NetGalley book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Fortunately the fire is not the Sutton offices but Goldie's, the local brothel. As they sit in the buggy looking for Sterling, Juliana see's them bring out blonde haired Nell Parker, one of the girls and then, and pull a sheet over her face but they didn't find Sterling. It wasn't until the next day that they found out he died in the fire. Juliana not only has the locket problem but now she has to play the proper grieving widow of Sterling Sutton.
The aunts have been working on an autographed quilt for charity when one day Juliana discovers the name Pamela Lindermann, this is one she doesn't recognize. The undertaker Marvin Lindermann doesn't have a daughter but she connects the name with the initials P.L. so she has the name removed from the quilt, but will the shadow of that name on the quilt be forever in engraved in her memory?
Stephanie did a wonderful job on this story, I found myself pulled into feeling Juliana's pain. She shows Juliana's strong feelings for her husbands aunts and how she will do anything to keep them from suffering the way she is. Juliana somehow finds the strength to move ahead with her life, but what is in store for her, you'll have to read this book on your own to find out. I think you will find yourself being pulled in too.
I read my e-books while I'm in the truck going to town or traveling, paperbacks at home, and let me tell you that I was always anxious to go somewhere and have someone else drive so I could read. I think this second book was a lot better than the first one. I really liked The Key on the Quilt too, but something about this one touched me. I don't know if there is a third one coming out but I am on the lookout for it.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the NetGalley book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
September 22, 2016
Great story line
Enjoyed very much. Had surprises written in the book little turns you never saw coming. A read alone book. There are 3 books in this series I have read 2 . Love the Christ like love that she bought to the characters. The saving grace of our saviour. Shadey characters that wins your heart.
Enjoyed very much. Had surprises written in the book little turns you never saw coming. A read alone book. There are 3 books in this series I have read 2 . Love the Christ like love that she bought to the characters. The saving grace of our saviour. Shadey characters that wins your heart.
April 12, 2016
The Shadow on the Quilt
Book Description
Juliana Sutton’s life looks perfect—from the outside. Until her husband’s untimely death reveals a devastating truth. . . . Cass Gregory is carrying his own dark secrets and feels unworthy to offer comfort to a woman of Juliana’s standing. When circumstances force them together, both Juliana and Cass are wounded and afraid to trust. Will the shadow of her dead husband’s name stand between Juliana and Cass, or will Juliana choose a love she never thought possible?
My Review
This story was much deeper than it initially appeared. In the face of an embarrassing betrayal, Juliana is faced with many choices on how to deal with her husband's death. Not only is she stuck with a behomoth of a house, she is also charged with the care of his elderly aunts. It was quite a pleasure to read through this tale of faith and fortitude. While Juliana went through many different feelings, she grew in her faith and was able to find forgiveness for her husband and others. The Shadow on the Quilt was not what I expected but brought tears to my eyes when it was revealed. Definitely a wonderful read.
From A Christian Perspective
This was a delightful Christian read! Juliana and Cass's characters were real and faced the struggles that many Christians still face today. The author did not sugarcoat the situations but showed how faith made a difference in the end result. The author also included thoughtful examples of faith for show vs. faith of the heart. In the end, faith and love won out in very unexpected ways. I look forward to the conclusion of the series!
Love and Blessings!
Margaret
Book Description
Juliana Sutton’s life looks perfect—from the outside. Until her husband’s untimely death reveals a devastating truth. . . . Cass Gregory is carrying his own dark secrets and feels unworthy to offer comfort to a woman of Juliana’s standing. When circumstances force them together, both Juliana and Cass are wounded and afraid to trust. Will the shadow of her dead husband’s name stand between Juliana and Cass, or will Juliana choose a love she never thought possible?
My Review
This story was much deeper than it initially appeared. In the face of an embarrassing betrayal, Juliana is faced with many choices on how to deal with her husband's death. Not only is she stuck with a behomoth of a house, she is also charged with the care of his elderly aunts. It was quite a pleasure to read through this tale of faith and fortitude. While Juliana went through many different feelings, she grew in her faith and was able to find forgiveness for her husband and others. The Shadow on the Quilt was not what I expected but brought tears to my eyes when it was revealed. Definitely a wonderful read.
From A Christian Perspective
This was a delightful Christian read! Juliana and Cass's characters were real and faced the struggles that many Christians still face today. The author did not sugarcoat the situations but showed how faith made a difference in the end result. The author also included thoughtful examples of faith for show vs. faith of the heart. In the end, faith and love won out in very unexpected ways. I look forward to the conclusion of the series!
Love and Blessings!
Margaret
October 25, 2012
A touching tale of forgiveness.
Julianna Sutton's life looks perfect, but when she uncovers a secret on the night of her husband's death, everything changes. Julianna struggles to reconcile her love for her husband, his death, and trying to forgive, while openning up a home for the friendless.
Can Julianna ever let go of the past and move forward?
Wow, I think this is one of the best books that I have read from Stephanie Grace Whitson! The characters were so well done and genuine, I liked how Julianna dealt with the many obstacles that came her way, and I really was able to instantly connect and feel for her. Cass was really likable, and was an ideal hero because he was sensitive to what Julianna had gone through, and he was the friend that she needed. There were many other great characters, like "The Aunts" and it was interesting to see Jenny's side of the story too.
I loved how powerful the plot was, and it definitely kept me engaged. The Shadow on the Quilt was a book that built a compelling story, with a sweet romance, and a powerful message of forgiveness and moving on. A book I highly recommend.
I received this ebook from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
Julianna Sutton's life looks perfect, but when she uncovers a secret on the night of her husband's death, everything changes. Julianna struggles to reconcile her love for her husband, his death, and trying to forgive, while openning up a home for the friendless.
Can Julianna ever let go of the past and move forward?
Wow, I think this is one of the best books that I have read from Stephanie Grace Whitson! The characters were so well done and genuine, I liked how Julianna dealt with the many obstacles that came her way, and I really was able to instantly connect and feel for her. Cass was really likable, and was an ideal hero because he was sensitive to what Julianna had gone through, and he was the friend that she needed. There were many other great characters, like "The Aunts" and it was interesting to see Jenny's side of the story too.
I loved how powerful the plot was, and it definitely kept me engaged. The Shadow on the Quilt was a book that built a compelling story, with a sweet romance, and a powerful message of forgiveness and moving on. A book I highly recommend.
I received this ebook from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
November 2, 2012
This is book two in the Quilt Chronicles. You do not have to read the first to enjoy this second book. The characters and setting are enjoyable. The book is well written and the story is believable. This author, Stephanie Grace Whitson, is an excellent writer. You will enjoy any book she has written.
I gave this book 5/5 stars. The story held my attention and was entertaining. The book finds the two main characters, Juliana and Cass, with issues that should keep them apart. One not trusting and one with issues from the past. How they interact is great to read. I liked how the conversations flowed. I also enjoyed the story line and how it read quickly. I thought the main characters were well written and that every page was worth reading. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian fiction with some clean romance thrown in.
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
I gave this book 5/5 stars. The story held my attention and was entertaining. The book finds the two main characters, Juliana and Cass, with issues that should keep them apart. One not trusting and one with issues from the past. How they interact is great to read. I liked how the conversations flowed. I also enjoyed the story line and how it read quickly. I thought the main characters were well written and that every page was worth reading. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian fiction with some clean romance thrown in.
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
October 1, 2013
Juliana and Cass are thrown together as completion of the mansion draws near, each one wounded and afraid to trust. Will the shadow of a name stand between them and true happiness?
I'm a big fan of Whitson and have been from her earliest beginnings. The woman knows how to weave a story. At the risk of spoiling a part of the story I'm just going to let you know Juliana's husband dies. Hopefully you could pick up on that from the description. I'll let you read to find out the "scandal". The story is well developed and you'll be swept along. Juliana is sweet if not a bit naive. Cass is just a sweetheart. The two of them growing together is achingly sweet. You'll love where the story leads.
I personally feel like the whole quilt theme is a bit of a stretch. But that's a moot point when it comes to this sweet story of redemption. Wrap up in a quilt and get ready to read for quite awhile.
My thanks to Barbour Publishing for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my real and honest review.
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